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Safety Handbook

0Depart. of Applied Sciences, Penang Campus, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Pulau PinangT : 604 3822773 / F : 604 3822768

SAFETY & HEALTHHANDBOOK

Department of Applied SciencesUniversiti Teknologi MaraPulau Pinang

Safety Handbook


Prepared by:

MOHD NOOR MOHD MOKHTARNOR FADHLIN JAAFAR

NURUL IZZA HUSINLIM BOON TIK

RAHIMAH ABDUL RAHIMVICINISVARRI INDERAN

NOOREZAL ATFYINNA MOHD NAPIAH

Safety Handbook


Department of Applied Sciences (JSG) - 2 - - 2 -ed Sciences (JSG)Safety & Health Handbook Page

Page1. Introduction 4

2. JSG Safety & Health Policy 4

3. Objectives of Handbook 53.1 Compulsory Reading 63.2 Responsibilities and Liabilities 63.3 Disclaimer 6

4. Useful Telephone Numbers 7

5. Responsibilities for Safety and Health at JSG, UiTM5.1 General 7

5.1.1 Responsibilities 7-95.1.1.1 Responsibilities of Department members 95.1.1.2 Responsibilities of laboratory personnel and

students 9-105.2 Handling of Health & Safety Issues 105.3 Resolving of Health & Safety Issues 10

6. Sub-Occupational Safety & Health Committees(SOSHco) 10-116.1 Scheduled Workplace Inspections and Monitoring

– Safety Audit 116.2 Six-step Safety Procedure 12

7. General Safety 12-14

8. Chemical and Hazardous materials safety8.1 Chemical storage 148.2 Labeling chemicals 158.3 Hazardous chemical operations 158.4 Flammable liquids 16

8.4.1 Storage of flammable liquids 168.4.2 Flammable storage refrigerators 168.4.3 Peroxidizable compounds 17

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9. Waste disposal 17

10. Compressed gas cylinders 17

11. Mercury use 18

12. Spill kits 18

13. Chemical Fume Hoods 1814. Laboratory safety 19

15. Emergency Action Plan15.1 Preparation 19-2015.2 In the event of a fire or explosion in your

laboratory/ office/classroom 2015.2.1 Evacuation 20-2115.2.2 Assembly 2115.2.3 Clothing on Fire 21

15.3 In the event of a chemical spill 2215.3.1 Chemical spill on body 2215.3.2 Chemical spill in eye 22

15.4 Swallowed Poisons 2215.5 Bleeding 2315.6 Fractures 2315.7 Thermal burns 2315.8 Electrical shocks 2315.9 Medical Emergency 23

16. Incident reporting 24

17. Smoking policy 24

18. Fire safety 2418.1 Fire extinguishers 24

18.1.1 Types portable extinguishers 2518.2 Fireproof blankets 25

19. Electrical safety 25-2720. Mechanical safety 27

21. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 2821.1 Gloves 2821.2 Footwear 28

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21.3 Eye protection 2821.4 Lab coats 2821.5 Hearing Protection 28

22. Test Equipment 2923. Office 29-3024. Risk Assessments 30-31

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1. INTRODUCTION

Laboratories can be inherently dangerous places and the attitudesand actions of those who work in the laboratories determine theirown safety, their colleagues and ultimately that of the community.

Safety measures are adopted to reduce these inherent risks in theuse of dangerous materials and potentially dangerous procedures orpractices to an acceptable level. However, different standards areused for different levels of risk and compromises are made so as notto impede much needed research while keeping risks of thoseinvolved to a minimum.

Nowadays, laboratory and office equipment as well as design havebecome more sophisticated and safer, but safe operation stilldepends on properly trained personnel, who are safety conscious atall time.

It is emphasized that proper training and required knowledge ofequipment and materials to be handled need to be provided. It mustbe assured that a knowledgeable and safety conscious person trainsemployees in the safe use of specific equipment.

1. DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED SCIENCES (JSG) SAFETY ANDHEALTH POLICY

It is the policy of JSG to provide and maintain healthy and safeconditions on its premises for all employees, students and visitors, bythe enforcement of legislative requirements as contained in the Lawof Malaysia Act 514 i.e. Occupational Safety and Health Act, 1994,its regulations and statutes, plus all policies, rules or instructionsissued by the University.

Both the employer and all employees are responsible jointly forcompliance and enforcement of the rules and regulations and to takeappropriate steps to prevent accidents, occupational illnesses,injuries, or adverse effects upon the natural environment.

It is the responsibility of all employees to familiarise themselves withthe Occupational Safety and Health Act, 1994 and its Regulations,

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plus other statutes and their regulations, and all university rules, orinstructions that pertain to the health and safety of the workenvironment and workplace. Contact JSG administrative office, JSGsub-Occupational Safety and Health Committee (SOSHCo)representatives, or the Office of Occupational Safety and Health,UiTM for further information.

Dean, Deputy Deans, Professors, research supervisors, programand course coordinators, academic staffs, technicians and othersupporting staffs of the JSG department of Universiti Teknologi MaraPulau Pinang are responsible for the safety ofemployees/colleagues, students and visitors who work and studywithin their areas of jurisdiction and for compliance with statutory anduniversity requirements.

Employees have a duty to comply with statutory requirements andwith a supervisor's instructions, work safely and report all unsafe andunhealthy conditions, not only in the interests of their own health andsafety, but that of other employees, students and visitors.

Although the Occupational Safety & Health Act 1994 exemptsstudents from the legislation, they are required to comply with allJSG safety, health and environment rules as “occupiers’ liabilities”.

All employees, supervisors, students and visitors will be heldaccountable for environmental health and safety performance.

2. OBJECTIVES OF HANDBOOK

The objectives of the handbooks is :

To define safety & health responsibilities andaccountabilities within the JSG Community

To outline specific policies where applicable To explain basic emergency procedures To provide basic information on safety and health in the

workplaces To provide safety guidelines in JSG laboratories.

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This handbook may be supplemented as new information becomesavailable or as new legal standards are developed.

3.1 COMPULSORY READING

Every person working or intending to work in JSG laboratoriesMUST read this document. Permission will NOT be granted forwork in the laboratories if failure to abide by the rules andregulations stipulated in this handbook.

3.2 RESPONSIBILITIES AND LIABILITIES

Everyone actively engaged in laboratory work is legally responsiblefor safety performance. All laboratories personnel must meet thelegal requirements of various health and safety statutes. It isexpected that adherence to suggested recommendations is a goodstarting point for establishing an acceptable laboratory safetyprogram.

More detailed and specific safety procedures and practices may benecessary. Everyone is encouraged to develop and use practiceswhich exceed the basic information in this manual.

Everyone should be able to justify that reasonable care anddeliberation has been exercised before the implementation of anychanges. By not using recommended practices or safer alternative,individual liability may increase. Therefore, always take reasonablecare to ensure that safety considerations are included in alllaboratories endeavors.

3.3 DISCLAIMER

This handbook is intended to provide basic rules for safe workpractices, particularly in JSG laboratories. The procedures may besupplemented with safer work practices where applicable.

The handbook is by no means all encompassing and any omission isnot an excuse for unsafe practices.

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In all cases the individual supervisor is ultimately responsible forteaching safe work practices and must insist upon the use of suchproper procedures to eliminate unnecessary hazards.

The individual supervisors must identify, and supplement this manualwith safe procedures and training, specific to the needs of theirlaboratory safety programs, when the safety subject is notadequately covered by this handbook.

4. USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Directors Office (Level 9) 604-382 2778Department General Office (Level 3) 604 382 2773Office of OSH UiTM, Safety Officer (T5) 604-382 3422Security Office 604-382 2993 / 2996Facility Unit 604-382 3005 / 3019University Health Centre 604-382 2850 / 2860Fire Department 994

5. RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SAFETY & HEALTHAT JSG, UiTM

5.1 GENERAL

It is the responsibility of each member of the JSG Community toknow all emergency procedures, location and use of safetyequipment and exit routes in case of an emergency. All departmentmembers, students, visiting scholars, technicians, employees,visitors and any other persons who use laboratory spaces or officeare included within this procedure.

5.1.1 Responsibilities

Safe practice is an attitude and a knowledgeable awareness ofpotential hazards. SAFETY is a mutual responsibility and requiresthe full cooperation of everyone in the laboratory. Every new staffmember at JSG has an opportunity to attend a general orientation tobecome familiar with structure and organization of the University andthe Department. They must attend a safety training/briefing sessionprior to commencement of their work so as to be aware of safety andhealth issues in their workplace. So do students who are “occupiers’

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liabilities”, are required to attend safety and health lectures at thebeginning of their first semester in JSG.

A department member is a supervisor under certain circumstances,particularly when an employee directly or indirectly reports to thedepartment member. Research lab technicians, departmental labtechnicians, students undertaking research projects or hired and paidto provide service, clerical and administrative staff are someexamples of employees for which the department member may bethe supervisor. As such the supervisors represent employer withinthe given circumstances and are required to comply with the OSHA1994.

A Department staff is a supervisor if any of the following applies:

a person who has charge of a workplace a person who plans and distributes work a person who disciplines an employee or recommends any

of the above.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA) expects andlegally require that the employer be held accountable for supervisorycompliance to legal obligations. Although supervisors may delegatesafety tasks, they (the supervisors) are still held accountable forensuring that the tasks are adequately performed.

The following are duties as stated in OSHA 1994

Employer

To provide and maintain systems of work that are safe andwithout risk to health

To make arrangements for ensuring safety and health inconnection with the use or operation, handling, storage andtransportation of equipment and substances

To provide information, instruction, training and supervisionto ensure employees perform their work in a safe mannerand without risk to health

To maintain a place of work that is safe and without risk tohealth including means of access and egress

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To provide and maintain a working environment that is safeand without risks to health with adequate welfare facilities.

Penalty for failure to comply is RM50, 000 or two years imprisonmentor both.

Employee

To take reasonable care at work for the safety of himselfand other persons

To cooperate with the employer or any other person in thedischarge of any duty under the act or regulations

To wear or use any protective equipment and clothingprovided by the employer

To comply with any instruction or measure on occupationalsafety and health as required under the act or regulations

Penalty for failure to comply is RM1,000 or three monthsimprisonment or both.

5.1.1.1 Responsibilities of Department members

Implementing all health and safety policies in the laboratory Developing written safety procedures applicable to their

research and workers Mandating laboratory practices and controls that reduce the

potential for exposure to hazards Informing all laboratory staff and students of the potential

hazards associated with laboratory operations andprocedures for dealing with accidents

Supervising the laboratory to ensure that safe practices andcontrols are employed

Instructing the laboratory staff on the location and use of allsafety equipment in the facility

Reporting accidents and any other safety problems to theDepartmental Health and Safety Coordinator

Maintaining pertinent material safety data sheets (MSDS) inthe laboratory

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5.1.1.2 Responsibilities of laboratory personnel and students

Following all safety and health procedures specified in theLaboratory Health and Safety Manual.

Attending required health and safety training sessions Reporting accidents, unhealthy, and unsafe conditions to

the Department Health and Safety Coordinator. Notifying the department coordinator of any pre-existing

health conditions that could lead to serious health situationsin the laboratory.

5.2 HANDLING OF SAFETY & HEALTH ISSUES

In the event of any safety and health issues arising:

1. Bring to the attention of the supervisors.2. If no satisfactory resolution is achieved with the supervisors, the

issues may be brought to the attention of the JSG SOSHco andDepartment Coordinators.

3. At times the involvement of senior administration in the Universitymay be necessary.

The Office of Safety and Health, UiTM may be consulted at any timeafter the problem has been discussed with the supervisor.

5.3 RESOLVING OF SAFETY AND HEALTH ISSUES

In Occupational Safety and Health matters the supervisor andworkers share the responsibility for the safety of the "workers". In allcases, if a hazard or unsafe situation is identified, the worker mustinform the supervisor as quickly as possible. The preferred method ofresolution is between the supervisor and the worker; however theissue, if unresolved may require discussion with the SOSHco.

If the concern is relevant to the department, the supervisor shouldbring this concern to the attention of the particular departmentadministration (Dean of Universiti Teknologi Mara). A worker shouldraise this type of concern with their SOSHco representation, if theirsupervisor has not adequately resolved the concern. Again, it is

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expected that the committee will decide if the concern is to beforwarded to the employer.

6. SUB-OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH COMMITTEES(SOSHco)

Under the OSHA ’94 Part VII sec.30 (1) it is compulsory for aworkplace with more than 40 employees to form an action orientedsafety and health committee. In UiTM, the department level isrepresented by JSG Sub-Occupational Safety & Health Committee(SOSHco) which is an advisory group of Department staffs andmanagement representatives which assist the Office of OSH, UiTMin ensuring the ACT 514 and the appropriate regulations areimplemented at the Department level.

The names of the committee members should be posted outside thedepartment main administrative office. On each committee at least athird of the representatives must represent "workers" (seeOccupational Safety and Health Act 1994 Part VII Sec 30). The legalcommittees have the following rights and responsibilities:

conducts inspections to identify workplace hazards obtain information from the department management make recommendations on measures to improve work

environment in JSG involves in planning the conversion or alterations of existing

JSG premises risk assessments assists and cooperate with the University Safety Officer develop appropriate safety and health training programs conducts safety and health audit on scheduled basis help disseminating information on safety and health at

workplace

The committees may hold monthly meetings.The Department has a general duty to co-operate with the committeeand assist it to carry out its responsibilities.

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6.1 SCHEDULED INSPECTIONS AND MONITORING – SAFETYAUDIT

Regular inspections of the workplace help to identify hazards andprevent accidents. It is the JSG Sub-Occupational Safety & HealthCommittee’s responsibility to schedule and conduct regularinspections. The entire workplace must be inspected at least once ayear. Other workers and the employer must give the safetyrepresentative information and assistance to carry out theseinspections. A proper check lists to help with the inspection processshould be available and have it made specific for the particularworkplace environment. A proper risk assessment which involves theemployees must be conducted for the workplace.

6.2 SIX-STEP SAFETY PROCEDURE

A general procedure to follow in practicing safety behaviors is thesix-step method. This serves as the foundation for personnel safetyphilosophy which enhances safety and efficient performance of work.

Think and Beware Understand procedures prior to mobilization of work Follow stipulated procedures Use appropriate safety equipment Ask if you are not sure Do not answer if you don’t know

7. GENERAL SAFETY

1. In the chemistry labs, it is required that everyone wearchemical safety goggles if dealing with chemicals orchemical safety glasses if no chemical exposure ispresent when performing an experiment or when usinglab equipment.

2. Appropriate clothing must be worn in the lab. In particular,long pants and a T-shirt with short sleeves (or somethingequivalent) should be worn. The shirt or blouse mustcover the midriff area such that no skin is visible, and theshoulders must be covered. Long sleeves are acceptable

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provided they do not represent a hazard by being tooloose. No sandals or open toed shoes are allowed.

3. Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed in anylaboratory. Smoking is not allowed anywhere in thebuilding.

4. Contact lenses are not allowed in any chemistrylaboratory.

5. Familiarize yourself with the location of safety equipment(including fire extinguishers, safety showers, eye washes,and first-aid kits), evacuation routes, and other safetypractices.

6. Never work in the laboratory alone.

7. Some operations must be carried out in a fume hood tominimize exposure to chemical vapors. Some reactionsmay require additional precautions.

8. Wash your hands often when performing lab work, andwash them thoroughly upon leaving the lab.

9. Long hair should be tied back.

10. Do not put food in a laboratory refrigerator.

11. Positively ensure the correct circuit is identified andconnected before energizing.

12. The technician/supervisor in charge must CHECKconnections before all energized electrical work.

13. De-energize the equipment before changing connections.

14. Don’t hesitate to stop work to prevent a fellow studentfrom performing unsafe acts.

15. Always consider electrical equipment energized unlesspositively proven otherwise.

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16. Use suitably rated electrical devices only as intended.

17. Remove all jewelry before performing energized electricalwork.

18. Know the location, and operation of emergencydisconnects (isolators) for all sources of power toequipment before beginning energized work.

19. Know emergency procedures (e.g. first-aids or CPR) orthe persons who are trained first-aider.

20. Reset circuit breakers only after the trip problem hasbeen corrected.

21. Maintain the protection of covers, barriers and shielding.When a panel or cover removed for access (a barrier),replace it with a temporary barrier to restore at least someof your protection.

22. High Voltage equipment should have proper interlockingsystem installed and coordinated with the handling of theequipment.

23. Practice proper housekeeping and cleanliness

8. CHEMICAL AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY

8.1 CHEMICAL STORAGE

The number and amounts of chemicals that need to be stored shouldbe reduced to an absolute minimum. Chemicals should be storedbased on their compatibility and not in alphabetical order. Acids,flammable liquids, halogenated materials, oxidizers and highlyreactive chemicals should all be separated and stored properly toavoid an unwanted chemical reaction. The following are generalguidelines:

1. Storage areas should be well ventilated.2. Large containers of reagents should be stored on low

shelving, preferably in trays to contain all leaks and spills.

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3. Chemicals should not be stored on the floor, on benchtops or inside fume hoods.

4. Inventories of storage areas should be conducted at leastannually.

5. Odiferous chemicals should be stored inside cabinets orunderneath fume hoods.

6. Reactive chemicals should be stored in air tightcontainers or at very low temperatures Flammablesrequiring refrigeration should be stored in explosion-saferefrigerators.

8.2 LABELING CHEMICALS

ALL containers including beakers, vials and flasks must be dated andlabeled with the chemical constituents and hazard. It isrecommended that the user's name also appear on the label. Labelson incoming containers must not be removed or defaced. Dating isespecially important in the case of compounds which have aspecified shelf life, such as those that will form peroxides.

8.3 HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL OPERATIONS

Department members must obtain prior written approval forlaboratory operations that involve particularly hazardous chemicalsfrom the department head and notify environmental health andsafety. Examples of circumstances that require prior approval are:

Any operation involving known human carcinogens Any process causing excess pressures which may result in

explosions or implosions Any chemical process or procedure that produces results

which are unknown but potentially extremely hazardous. Any laboratory procedure or activity that can not be

conducted in accordance with the guidelines established bythis Laboratory Health and Safety Plan and other state andfederal regulations and guidelines

Any chemical process or procedure which the departmenthas determined to be particularly hazardous and requiresprior approval.

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8.4 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

Fire hazards are associated with vapors from the flammable liquid. Inorder for a fire to occur the following conditions must be met:

An oxidizing material (e.g. oxygen in the room) must bepresent

Source of ignition

8.4.1 Storage Of Flammable Liquids

Limits for the storage of flammable solvents are based onfire hazards associated with each liquid. The followingrequirements must be followed:

Flammable liquids stored in the laboratory should be kept toa minimum.

Flammable liquids should not be stored next to incompatiblechemicals.

Storage of flammable liquids outside approved flammablestorage cabinets and safety cans must not exceed 10gallons per 100 square feet of laboratory space (Thisincludes waste).

If you have flammable storage cabinets and approvedsafety cans, storage must not exceed 20 gallons per 100square feet of laboratory space.

8.4.2 Flammable Storage Refrigerators

Flammable liquids shall not be stored in an ordinary household-typerefrigerator. Flammable storage refrigerators are specially designedto prevent internal explosions caused by flammable vapors coming incontact with ignition sources (e.g. the temperature control switch orthe light). An updated log of the chemicals stored in the refrigeratorshould be kept in the lab preferably in a plastic pocket attached tothe door.

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8.4.3 Peroxidizable Compounds

Under normal storage conditions, peroxides can form andaccumulate in peroxidizable compounds. Peroxides may thenexplode violently when chemicals are subject to thermal ormechanical shock. To prevent accidents, peroxidizable compoundsshould be identified, dated upon opening, inventoried, and evaluatedfor safe use after three months. Do not store peroxidizablecompounds in colorless glass bottles. Formation of peroxides iscatalyzed by light.

9. WASTE DISPOSAL

1) Hazardous chemical waste is disposed of in accordancewith University Safety Policy.

2) Evaporation of chemicals in chemical fume hoods orother means, if not part of an experimental procedure, isnot acceptable.

3) Waste chemicals are not poured down the drain to thesanitary sewer. Chemical, infectious, and radiologicalwaste containers are labeled and chemical compositionsspecified.

4) Infectious waste is disposed of in accordance withUniversity Safety Policy.

10. COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS

1) Cylinders are properly secured in an upright position, withcylinder clamps/chains fastened to a solid support.

2) Cylinders are tightly capped and numbers kept to aminimum.

3) Flammable materials are stored a minimum of 20 feetfrom cylinders containing oxidizers.

4) Oxygen cylinders are kept free of oil or grease to preventpossible explosion.

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5) Regulators, proper connections, and tubing are kept ingood condition. The correct regulator is always used andoxygen regulators are never lubricated.

6) Flammable gas tubing is secured and labeled.

7) If toxic gases are in use, proper leak sensors or alarmsshould be in place, regularly checked, and calibrated.

8) If toxic gases or gases with poor warning properties areused, redundant systems and shutoffs should be in place.

11. MERCURY USE

The use and storage of mercury and mercury-containingthermometers, barometers, and manometers is eliminated wheneverpossible.

12. SPILL KITS

1) Chemical spill kits are maintained in areas wherehazardous chemicals are stored and employees areproperly trained in their use.

2) Laboratory or staff do not attempt to use any of these kitsfor fuming acids, hydrofluoric acid, mixed products, orpoisons.

13. CHEMICAL FUME HOODS

1) Hoods are operational and are posted with the date of thelast inspection. Report any malfunctioning hood or hoodwithout an inspection tag.

2) Sashes are able to open and close and the glass is intact.

3) Hoods are free of excess chemical storage andequipment.

4) Sashes are maintained down or closed when not beingaccessed.

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14. LABORATORY SAFETY

1) Explosion-proof or “explosion safe” refrigerators orfreezers are used only to store flammable materials. Non-explosion proof refrigerators or freezers are labeled “NoFlammables Allowed.”

2) Vacuum pump belt guards are in place.

3) Pressurized or vacuum apparatus is shielded andsafeguarded against bumping or overheating. Thisequipment is checked for leaks or other damage beforeusing.

4) Damaged glassware (including chipped, etched, orcracked) is not used in the laboratory.

5) Laboratories review hazardous operations in advance ofbeginning work and prepare specific standard operatingprocedures.

6) Laboratory personnel are not to work alone where the riskof personal injury is high, unless other personnel areaware of their presence and can come quickly to aid.

15. EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

15.1 PREPARATION

In order to be prepared for an emergency, know the hazards of eachcompound you work with. Assess the risks before using anychemical and have a laboratory emergency plan for all procedureswith hazardous materials on file and posted in a conspicuous areafor employees and emergency responders. Consider the following:

toxicity, reactivity, and flammability of the compound the amounts involved the expected duration of your exposure to the compound potential routes of entry for the chemical (i.e., inhalation,

ingestion, skin contact)

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In all emergencies and accidents, the first consideration is yoursafety and the safety of those around you.

15.2 IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE OR EXPLOSION IN YOURLABORATORY/OFFICE/CLASSROOM

Immediately vacate the building via the nearest Exit Route. DO NOTUSE ELEVATORS!The safety of all people in the vicinity of a fire is of foremostimportance.

15.2.1 Evacuation

In the event of a fire in your work area shouts "API! API!API!" and activate the nearest fire alarm.

phone ext. 3005/2993 or the fire service 994, give locationand details.

Attempt to rescue persons in immediate danger, but do notendanger yourself!

If fire is small, extinguish using fire extinguisher or suffocatefire with blanket or other appropriate material. Assure thatthe fire extinguisher is appropriate for the specific type offire.

Do not attempt to fight a major fire on your own. Safeevacuation is the primary concern.

Students in classroom/laboratory when instructed leave thepremise in single file.

Lecturer/Instructor follow at rear with the attendanceregister

Talking or laughing are discouraged in order that anyinstructions given may be heard

Close all doors including those along the escape routes butdo not lock them.

Follow instructions and guides of JSG fire marshals Do not run, walk steadily and quietly to the nearest exits Use exit stairs, not the elevators. Evacuate to designated assembly points Do not reenter the building until permission is given by

UiTM OSH Officer.

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15.2.2 Assembly

1. The places of assembly are as shown in the evacuationplan.

2. Follow instructions of JSG fire marshals3. Assembled according to each individual class and group

of people e.g. students by classes, staffs, visitors, etc. ina pre-determined position and stand in compact group.

4. The lecturer/instructor should conduct a roll-call forstudents from the registers of the class

5. For the other groups a head count should be done byeach responsible person of the group/section.

6. The responsible personnel shall report to JSG firemarshal in-charge at assembly point and assure allpeople are accounted for, or otherwise.

15.2.3 Clothing on Fire

Douse with water immediately OR

Roll on floor and scream for help OR

Wrap with fire blanket to smother flame (a coat or other non-flammable fibre may be used if blanket is unavailable).

N.B. - DO NOT USE FIRE EXTINGUISHER ON PEOPLECall ext. 2850/3400 if medical aid is required.

15.3 IN THE EVENT OF A CHEMICAL SPILL

Alert all persons nearby. If you have spilled a small amount, know that the chemical

is of minimal hazard, and can clean it up, do so. Evacuate the area and close the door to the laboratory

facility. If flammables are spilled and your safety is assured,turn off any ignition devices.

Evacuate: Notify occupants nearby Close the door to the fire area. Activate the building fire alarm system. Dial 999 and report exact location of of the chemical spill. Evacuate and stay clear of building.

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15.3.1 Chemical spill on body

Wash thoroughly with water or use emergency showerimmediately for 15 minutes, remove contaminated clothing.

Prevent further contamination of other body parts,especially face and eyes.

Call ext. 2850/3400 if medical aid is required.

15.3.2 Chemical In Eye

Contact lenses must be removed immediately, if possible. Immediately flush eyes with water for at least 20 minutes. Hold eye open during flushing - ask for assistance. If necessary, call ext. 2850/3400 FOR ASSISTANCE. Get

medical attention

15.4 SWALLOWED POISONS

Dilute strong acids and alkalines by quickly administering largeamounts of water. But, NEVER give liquids to an unconsciousperson. If strong acids, strong alkalies, or petroleum products areknown to have been swallowed, do not induce vomiting.

15.5 BLEEDING

Have the student apply pressure directly to the wound. Do NOTapply a tourniquet. Try to ensure that the blood does not contactanyone else.

15.6 FRACTURES

Do NOT move the victim unless absolutely necessary.

15.7 THERMAL BURNS

Do NOT attempt to remove clothing. Completely cover burns with aplastic ice pack, or immerse burn in cold water. If burn is very severe,be careful about applying ice or water over burn, as this mayintensify shock reaction.

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15.8 ELECTRICAL SHOCKS

Remove the source of shock as soon as possible either by shutting off the source of power or using a non-conductive object (wood or dry cloth) to

separate the victim from the source.

15.9 MEDICAL EMERGENCY

Minor cuts or burns; get first aid (call ext. 2850/2860) andseek follow-up medical attention, if required.

Major injury - call ext. 2850/2860 (University Health Centre)- describe emergency and location

Give any necessary first aid to injured person, keep warmand DO NOT MOVE UNLESS IN DANGER.

Stay with injured until help arrives.

Report all incidents to your Sub-Occupational Safety and HealthCommittee and to the Office of Safety & Health, UiTM within 3days by filling up Safety/Incident Report Form.

16. INCIDENT REPORTING

All unusual incidents and emergencies whether personal injuryresulted or not, must be reported and documented within 3 days, byfilling out a JSG Safety/Incident Report. The person witnessing theoccurrence, the person directly involved or the supervisor may fill outthe report. Instructions are on the form. The report must be signed bythe person reporting the incident. The forms are available from JSGgeneral administrative office.

An unusual incident could be a near accident, any incident that couldhave resulted in an injury, cuts, abrasions, needle sticks, burns,direct chemical exposure etc.

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17. SMOKING POLICY

UiTM has a NO SMOKING policy on its campus building.

18. FIRE SAFETY

Every member of the JSG community is responsible for knowing thelocation of the nearest fire extinguisher, the fire alarm, and thenearest fire escape. Everyone should become familiar with the use ofa fire extinguisher.

18.1 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

They are installed throughout JSG building according to the firecode. Facility Unit (T2-A6) is responsible for their maintenance. Theyshould be inspected monthly. All laboratories must be equipped witha fire extinguisher. If an extinguisher is used assure that it is promptlyrefilled.

Immediately contact Facility Unit ext. 3005/2832.

Problems with fire extinguishers – Contact Facility Unit ext.3005/2832.

18.1.1 TYPES PORTABLE EXTINGUISHERS

In selecting the appropriate extinguishers for the laboratories, thetype of combustible material must be considered.

CLASS A fires involve ordinary combustible materials such aswood, cloth, paper, rubber and many plastics.

CLASS B fires involve flammable liquids and gases, oils,greases, tars, oil-base paints, lacquers and some plastics.

CLASS C fires involve Class A and/or B materials in thepresence of live electrical equipment, motors, switches andwires.

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CLASS D fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium,titanium, sodium, potassium, zirconium, lithium and any otherfinely-divided metals which are oxidizable.

18.2 FIREPROOF BLANKETS

Fireproof blankets, usually made of 100% wool, are used to wrap aburning victim to smother a fire. Do not wrap a standing person,because of a chimney effect; lay the victim down to extinguish thefire. The blanket should be removed once the fire is out in order todisperse the heat and thus minimize tissue damage. These blanketsmay also be used to keep injured persons warm. (Discard any fireblankets made with asbestos.)

19. ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Wear proper attire and personal protective equipment Locate the master electrical cut-off switch. Use low voltage DC for studying simple circuits. The lecturer should check all student circuits before the

power supply is connected. Never touch electrical circuit components with the power on.

Only insulated tools should be used to make checks. Report damaged electrical equipment. Look out for frayed

cords, exposed wires and loose connections. When working with electrical circuits, be sure that the power

supply is turned off before making adjustments in the circuit The last act in assembling a wired electrical circuit is to

insert the plug. The first act in disassembling a wiredelectrical circuit is to remove the plug.

When using an electrical circuit, you should use only onehand at a time to avoid bringing both hands in contact withlive sections of the circuit.

Electrical batteries should be checked for leakage and notbe left in electrical appliances for extended periods of time.

If electrical circuit is used near a metal object, the objectshould be permanently insulated to prevent contact. Careshould be taken to assure that live wires do not contactgrounded metal objects.

All electrical equipment requiring electrical grounding mustbe properly grounded. Power cables with a groundconductor must be in good condition.

Safety Handbook


Electrical equipment should be inspected periodically toconfirm that the cords and plugs are in safe condition.

Place electrical equipment so as to minimize the possibilitythat water or chemicals could spill on it or that water couldcondense and enter the motor or controls.

Electrical equipment must be GFI-protected (i.e."grounded") when used near any water source. If water orfluid is spilled in or around electrical equipment, FIRST shutoff circuit breaker, then unplug the equipment beforecleaning up the spill.

If a student/staff receives an electrical shock and is incontact with the energized device, use nonconductivegloves or a non conducting device to pull or push the victimfree from the electrical source. Help victims only if you arecertain that you will not endanger your own safety. Turn offor disconnect the power source if possible. Call 999. If atrained person is available, start CPR if necessary. Getmedical assistance at once.

Avoid using extension cords whenever possible. If you mustuse one, obtain a heavy- duty one that is electricallygrounded, with its own fuse, and install it safely. Extensioncords should not go under doors, across aisles, be hungfrom the ceiling, or plugged into other extension cords.

Be sure all metal casings and fixtures that someone mightcome in contact with have been properly grounded.

Care should be taken not to spill liquids near electricaloutlets.

If fire does occur with a "live" electrical apparatus, pull theplug then use an appropriate fire extinguisher (Class C), drychemical - carbon dioxide.

Practice proper housekeeping and cleanliness

20. MECHANICAL SAFETY

Warning should be given to students to prevent hands andfeet from being caught between a moving heavy mass andfloor or table surfaces. Students may not anticipate howdifficult it is move or support a lead brick or kilogram mass

Students should be warned of the potential risk of pinchingtheir hands between object and the magnet.

Safety Handbook


A stretched spring, unexpectedly released, can pinchfingers. Care should be taken to avoid unexpected releaseof the spring’s energy.

It is recommended that students wear approved lasergoggles. Warn the student not to look directly into the beamof a laser.

Be careful when working with apparatus that may be hot. Ifyou must pick it up, use tongs, a wet paper towel, or otherappropriate holder.

If a thermometer breaks, inform the instructor immediately.Do not touch either the broken glass or the mercury withyour bare skin.

Replace blown equipment fuses with fuses of the sameamperage. Replace fuses with the equipment unplugged

Mirrors that are sharp should be taped. Jagged-edgedmirrors should be discarded.

21. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

For any work in a laboratory a lab coat, eye protection, gloves andproper footwear is recommended.

Personal protective equipment suitable for the operation of the workmust be worn.

It is the individual's responsibility to maintain personal protectiveequipment in good condition.

21.1 GLOVES

Gloves can protect your hands from many hazards.

There are many different types of protective gloves available andthey should be chosen carefully to offer the best protection forspecific procedures and chemicals.

Safety Handbook


Be aware that different glove materials have different chemicalpermeability’ and this should be checked with the manufacturerbefore choosing a specific glove type.

Remove gloves, before leaving the laboratory.

21.2 FOOTWEAR

Proper shoes are to be worn in all laboratories. NO slippers areallowed in the laboratories. No admission for non compliance.

21.3 EYE PROTECTION

Depending on the protection required during a specific procedureregular safety glasses, chemical safety goggles or a full face shieldmay be necessary.

21.4 LAB COATS

Lab coats provide additional protection and it is recommended thatthey be worn at all times in a lab especially when working withchemicals.

21.5 HEARING PROTECTION

It is recommended that hearing protection be worn if average noiselevels exceed 85 dBA (decibels) over an 8 hour period. It ispermissible to be at noise levels greater than 85 dBA for shortperiods of time without hearing protection. The table showsrecommended limits of noise exposure:

Sound leveldBA

90 92 95 97 100 102 105 110 115

Hoursexposed

8 6 4 3 2 1.5 1 0.5 0.25 orless

Whispering: 30 dBA Normal communication: 50 – 70dBA Saloon Car: 70 dBAHeavy traffic/lorry: 80 -100 dBA Rock Drill / Chain Saw: 100 – 120dBA

Safety Handbook


22. TEST EQUIPMENT

Test equipment used in the laboratory is considered personalprotective equipment (PPE). Each instrument will have the words“CAT I - 500V” (or the actual category and maximum workingVOLTAGE) marked near the input terminals. Category I for lowestVOLTAGE work, up through Category IV for substation and powerdistribution work. When such a meter is used, its rating requiressuitable approved test leads are used to ensure the Category Ratingthe manufacturer has earned. Use of “off-the-shelf” test probes andleads may void the Category Rating. The categories and ratings forintended service are:

Category I: Protected electronic equipmentCategory II: Appliances, portable tools, etc.Category III: Fixed switchgear, motorsCategory IV: Utility (premises wiring)

The test equipment is recommended to be calibrated regularly,according to the manufacturers’ maintenance instructions.

23. OFFICE

Electricity is essential to the operation of a modern automated officeas a source of power. However, if improperly used and maintained,the electrical equipment in an office is potentially hazardous, cancause serious shock and burn injuries. The followings arerecommendations to be adhered to:

All electrical equipment, 50 volts or greater capacity,must be approved by SIRIM.

All electrical apparatus must be properly grounded. Any two-pin device must be SIRIM approved. Never remove the ground pin of a 3 pronged plug. Minimize the use of extension cords on a permanent

basis. Ask maintenance unit to install more outlets ifrequired.

Only qualified and trained people should repair ormodify electrical or electronic equipment.

Safety Handbook


Circuit breaker panels must be easily accessible andclearly marked.

Frayed wires, cords must not be used. Do not use electric wires as supports and never pull on

live wires. Ensure that all wires are dry before plugging into

circuits. Practice proper housekeeping and cleanliness.

24. RISK ASSESSMENTS

In ensuring safety and health in the workplace, suitable and sufficientassessment of the risks or hazards exposed to staffs, students andvisitors need to be carried out. These hazards should be identifiedand declared in the relevant risk assessment. The risk assessmentshould include:

activity of laboratories names of responsible person particular hazards or risks control measures to reduce risks signatures of participants confirmation of compliance

These risk assessments should be reviewed annually or wheneverthere are significant changes in work practices, personnels or risks inthe laboratories.

Safety Handbook


Memo

Safety Handbook


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